Oxford City Council has launched a public consultation inviting residents, visitors and businesses to review and comment on a significant £8 million programme of proposed improvements to the historic Covered Market.
At the heart of Oxford for more than 250 years, the Covered Market remains a vital hub for independent traders and daily city life. The latest proposals form part of a wider masterplan approved in February 2023, setting out a long-term framework to ensure the market continues to thrive into the 21st century.
Balancing heritage with modern needs
The programme focuses on essential infrastructure upgrades alongside carefully designed improvements to public spaces and accessibility. Much of the work targets ageing systems within the building, including drainage, electrics, utilities and welfare facilities that are approaching the end of their serviceable life.
Alongside these behind-the-scenes upgrades, the plans also include visible enhancements designed to improve the visitor experience while respecting the market’s historic character.
Proposed improvements include:
- A new open court and communal seating area
- Relocated and upgraded public toilets, including increased provision for women
- Improved lighting, entrances and wayfinding
- Upgraded utilities and services within the historic structure
- A new substation to support future energy demand
- Additional retail space
- Improved Wi-Fi connectivity
- Enhancements to Market Street to create a more welcoming pedestrian approach
Consultation and public engagement
Residents and businesses are being encouraged to take part in the consultation and provide feedback on the proposals. Full plans are available online, with in-person exhibitions also taking place during June.
Exhibition boards will first be displayed in the Covered Market on 11 June before moving to Oxford Town Hall from 12–16 June. They will then return to the market and remain on display until 26 June.
A drop-in session will also be held on Thursday 11 June between 4pm and 7pm inside the market, offering visitors the opportunity to meet the project team and view the designs in person.
Keeping the market open
The council has confirmed that the Covered Market will remain open throughout the works, which are expected to begin in mid-2027 and take place in phases over approximately two years.
Traders have been involved in discussions throughout the development of the proposals, with assurances that independent businesses will remain central to the market’s identity and leasing strategy.
While some units may be reconfigured to accommodate improvements such as additional toilet facilities and infrastructure changes, the council has stated that no traders will be made homeless as a result of the works.
Why the upgrades are needed
According to the council, much of the existing infrastructure is nearing the end of its operational life. Upgrading these systems is intended to ensure the market remains safe, functional and financially sustainable, while also improving efficiency and reducing long-term maintenance costs.
The proposals also aim to support sustainability objectives, with future-ready infrastructure capable of accommodating technologies such as solar energy integration.
Preserving character, supporting the future
A key emphasis of the scheme is maintaining the unique identity and heritage of the Covered Market. As a listed building, all proposed changes are being developed with specialist heritage and conservation expertise to ensure sensitive integration with the existing structure.
The council has reiterated that the market will remain a working trading space throughout the project, preserving its role as a centre for independent retailers, food vendors and specialist traders.
Residents, visitors and businesses can view the proposals and share their feedback through the consultation portal.
